Measurement devices and methods

ABSTRACT

A device that includes or is attachable to a tape measure, that allows a user to take a measurement using the tape measure without requiring reference to measurement indicia. Such a device may include a base member, a housing on the base member including a slot for slidably receiving a tape of the tape measure when inserted through the slot of the housing during use, an elastomeric gripping layer positioned in the housing, positioned to contact a side of the tape when the tape is locked in a given position (e.g., given extension) during use, a movable pressure locking wedge positioned within the housing so that the tape is pinched between the wedge and another surface (the gripping layer is involved in such pinching), and a handle operable to move the wedge which allows selective locking of the tape between the wedge and other surface upon actuation of the handle.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 62/331,264, filed May 3, 2016, entitled“MEASUREMENT DEVICES AND METHODS,” the disclosure of which is hereinincorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. The Field of the Invention

The invention relates to measurement devices, e.g., tape measures asused by those engaged in carpentry work.

2. The Relevant Technology

Tape measures have been available for decades, and have changed littleover the past few decades. One problem frequently encountered by anyonefamiliar with use of a tape measure is the necessity of rememberingand/or communicating the value of a measured length. For example, aperson often will measure a given space in a first location, and thenwill need to remember the particular value of that measurement (or tellit to an assistant), as they go to a second location to measure and thencut or mark a board or other object or material, or otherwise compare oruse the length value just measured. For example, one may typically takethe measured value from the first location, and then use that value tomark, cut, or otherwise employ the remembered value with a board orother material to be employed in construction at the first location.Under such circumstances, it is easy to forget or misremember what thevalue of the measurement was, or to have that value miscommunicated toan assistant. Such problems lead to wasted materials and effort. Also,for those who don't use a tape measure often, there is difficulty inunderstanding the markings that are typically found on the tape,especially when the measured length falls between two lines of marking.

Another commonly encountered situation occurs when measuring an insidedimension (e.g., distance inside a cabinet, or similar insidedimension). When using a tape measure to measure such an insidedimension, the housing of the tape measure itself is in the way, whichbecomes problematic. Current tape measures require the user to bend thetape, so that the tape extends the full inside dimension, and to readthe bent tape (which can be difficult to do accurately), or to extendthe tape and the housing across the full inside dimension beingmeasured, to then read the value on the tape at the front end of thehousing, and then add a given value to the read measurement to accountfor the length of the housing itself. For example, if the drawn outdistance of the tape is 22 and ⅜ inches, the housing will often includea notation indicating to the user how much to add to the measured valueto account for the length of the housing. While for some tape measuresthis adjustment is a whole number (e.g., 2 inches or 3 inches),sometimes it is a fractional number (e.g. 2 and ¾ inches), making itvery inconvenient for the user trying to determine the accurate insidedimension. Furthermore, the housing itself of the tape measure istypically not formed of straight edges, but includes bowed, rounded, andtextured exterior surfaces, which introduces additional inaccuracy tosuch measurements.

It will be apparent that under such circumstances, it is easy for a userof existing tape measures to make a mistake in measurement (e.g., by notunderstanding the markings), to make a mistake in communicating themeasured value to an assistant, to make a mistake in remembering themeasured value, or even if the measurement is made more or lesscorrectly, its value may be inaccurate (e.g., particularly for measuredinside dimensions).

BRIEF SUMMARY

The first named inventor conceived of the present invention whilebuilding playhouses, where numerous cuts of identical length wererequired for boards to be used in construction of the play house. Inusing a tape measure to take the proper measurement, the measurement wasremembered or communicated incorrectly, so that several boards were cutat the incorrect length, resulting in frustration and waste. In at leastsome embodiments, the present invention provides a device that allows auser (e.g., a professional carpenter, cabinet maker, do-it-yourselfer,or anyone using a tape measure) to take a measurement using a tapemeasure without requiring reference to measurement indicia that may beprovided on the tape. Because no reference to such indicia is needed,the user is much less likely to make a mistake.

In an embodiment, the present invention is directed to a device thatincludes or is attachable to a tape measure, for use therewith. Thedevice may include a base member, and a housing supported on the basemember that includes a slot for slidably receiving a tape of the tapemeasure so that the tape can be inserted through the slot of thehousing. An elastomeric gripping layer may be positioned in the housing,positioned to contact a face (e.g., bottom) of the tape when the tape islocked in a given position during use. A movable pressure locking wedgemay be provided, positioned within the housing so that the tape ispinchable between the pressure locking wedge and another surface withoutdamaging the tape. In some embodiments, that other surface is theelastomeric gripping layer. A handle may be operable to move thepressure locking wedge, which allows the user to move the wedge (e.g.,rotate it, or move it vertically downward), selectively locking the tapebetween the pressure locking wedge and the other surface upon actuationof the handle. In an embodiment, the handle is attached to the pressurelocking wedge. In another embodiment, the handle may not necessarily bedirectly attached to the pressure locking wedge, but movement of thehandle operates to move the wedge, as will be explained in furtherdetail herein.

Another embodiment is directed to a device attached or attachable to atape measure, including a base member, a housing supported on the basemember including a slot for slidably receiving a tape of the tapemeasure insertable through the slot of the housing, and an elastomericgripping layer positioned at the bottom of the slot of the housing overwhich the tape slides during use. A movable (e.g., rotatable, ordownward slidable) pressure locking wedge may be positioned within thehousing so that the tape is positioned between the wedge and theelastomeric gripping layer during use. In another embodiment, theelastomeric gripping layer may be disposed on the movable pressurelocking wedge, so that pinching of the tape occurs between theelastomeric gripping layer and another surface (e.g., a stationarywedge). Various examples of such embodiments will be described infurther detail below. A handle may be operable to move the pressurelocking wedge, which allows the user to move the wedge, allowing lockingof the tape between the pressure locking wedge and whatever surface isopposite the movable wedge (e.g., the elastomeric gripping layer, oranother surface such as a stationary wedge).

Providing an elastomeric gripping layer that contacts the tape, so as tobe involved in the pinching of the tape in some way, provides very tightlocking of the tape, making it very difficult for a user tointentionally or inadvertently pull or push the tape in (which wouldundesirably shorten or lengthen the locked distance associated with theparticular locked position). For example, those of skill in the art willappreciate that many existing tape measures include a lock built intothe tape measure, which helps to hold the tape at a given extension.While this is so, the lock provided by such existing structures is notparticularly tight, so that a user may intentionally or inadvertentlycause the tape to retract or be further extended by pushing or pullingthe tape with a relatively small force. Such a pushing or pulling forcewill be insufficient to cause the locking structures described herein toretract or extend the tape. For example, the present inventors havefound that a 5 lb weight can be attached to the tape, and with thehandle in the locked position, it remains locked. Further, it will beappreciated that the locking structures described herein may be providedin addition to the traditional lock provided with state of the art tapemeasures. In other embodiments, the presently described lockingmechanism may replace the typical lock provided with a tape measure(e.g., where the device is incorporated into, or built-in to a tapemeasure).

The present invention also extends to methods of use, which allow a userto take a measurement, e.g., between first and second points, withoutrequiring the tape to include measurement indicia, as the method doesnot require reference to such indicia that are typically included on atape measure. Indeed, in an embodiment of a device that is “built-in” toa tape measure, the tape may not necessarily include such indicia. Sucha method may include extending one end (e.g., a leading edge) of a tapeto the first point, while aligning a straight edge of the device (e.g.,referred to as a locking device) that locks to the tape with the secondpoint, so as to define the measurement as between the end of the tapeand the straight edge of the locking device. With the locking devicelocked to the tape, the tape may then be moved to a board or otherobject or material to be cut, marked, compared, or otherwise used withthe measurement. For example, the leading end of the tape may bepositioned at one end of the board or other object or material, and thestraight edge of the locking device is then positioned at a point atwhich the board or other material is to be cut or marked, compared, orthe like. If the board or other material is to be cut or marked with themeasurement, the user may then cut or mark the board or other materialat the straight edge, so as to translate the measurement taken frombetween the first and second points to the board or other material,without requiring reference to any measurement indicia that may be onthe tape. It will be apparent that such a locking device and tapemeasure can similarly be used in any other use typically employed for atape measure (e.g., other than measurement comparisons, marking, orcutting).

While described as performed in the context of a tape, it will beappreciated that the term tape is to be construed broadly, and as noindicia are required on the tape, a string, cord, filament or other hightensile strength line may alternatively be employed. Similarly,telescoping rods or other members could take the place of a traditional“tape”, being extended from the first point to the second point,providing a similar result. Such alternate structures are thus to beconstrued as within the scope of the term “tape” as employed herein. Ofcourse, a typical, flat (or concavely curved) elongate thin ½ inch, ¾inch, 1 inch wide or other dimensioned traditional tape could beemployed.

These and other advantages and features of the present invention willbecome more fully apparent from the following description and appendedclaims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forthhereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order that the manner in which the above-recited and other advantagesand objects of the invention are obtained, a more particular descriptionof the invention briefly described above will be rendered by referenceto specific embodiments thereof which are illustrated in the appendeddrawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typicalembodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be considered tobe limiting of its scope, the invention will be described and explainedwith additional specificity and detail through the use of theaccompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary device that is shownattached to a tape of a tape measure, according to an embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view through the device of FIG. 1, showinghow the tape of a tape measure may be received through the tapereceiving slot of the device, with the tape freely slidable along itslength through the slot.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view similar to that of FIG. 2, but in whichthe handle connected to the pressure-locking wedge has been rotateddownward, pinching the tape within the device, so as to hold the deviceto the tape in a given position.

FIG. 4A shows the tape measure and device of FIGS. 1-3 being used tomeasure and then pinch or clamp the tape at a desired “outside”dimension (e.g., show measuring a desk width).

FIG. 4B shows the tape measure and device of FIGS. 1-3 being used topinch or clamp the tape at a desired “inside” dimension (e.g., shownmeasuring the inside dimension of picture frame, although this couldalso be done with the inside of a cabinet or other inside dimension).

FIG. 4C shows the tape measure and device of FIG. 4B, with the devicelocked in place, moved to a board being marked (e.g., for cutting) atthe appropriate measured dimension.

FIG. 5 shows another exemplary device, attached (e.g., permanently orremovably fixed) to a tape measure, where the housing of the device isseparate from the tape measure.

FIG. 5A shows a cross-sectional view through the device of FIG. 5,showing how actuation of the handle can selectively pinch the tapebetween the pressure locking wedge and the elastomeric layer in thehousing of the device.

FIG. 6A shows another exemplary device, integrated into a tape measure,with the housing of the device also housing the tape of the tapemeasure, with the movable pressure locking wedge of the device in anunlocked position.

FIG. 6B shows the device of FIG. 6A, with the leading edge of the tapeof the tape measure extended out from the housing to a desired length,and the movable pressure locking wedge of the device in a lockedposition.

FIG. 7A shows another exemplary device, similar to that of FIG. 6, alsowhere a housing of the device houses the tape of the tape measure, withthe movable pressure locking wedge in an unlocked position.

FIG. 7B shows the device of FIG. 7A, with the leading edge of the tapeof the tape measure extended out from the housing to a desired length,and the movable pressure locking wedge of the device in a lockedposition.

FIG. 7C shows a transverse cross-section through the device of FIG. 7B.

FIG. 8A is similar to FIG. 4A, but shown using the device of FIGS. 7A-7Cto measure the desk length or width.

FIG. 8B is similar to FIG. 5B, but shown using the device of FIGS. 7A-7Cto measure the inside dimension of the picture frame.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF DISCLOSED EMBODIMENTS

I. Introduction

Embodiments of the disclosure relate to devices and methods that allow auser to take a measurement (e.g., using a tape), and then take thatmeasurement to another location where a board or other material is to becut, marked, compared, or the like with the measurement. According toone such embodiment, a device that is attachable to, or included with atape measure may include a base member, a housing supported on the basemember including a slot for slidably receiving a tape of the tapemeasure insertable through the slot of the housing, and an elastomericgripping layer positioned in the housing, positioned to contact a faceof the tape when the tape is locked in a given position during use. Amovable pressure locking wedge may be positioned within the housing,which assists in locking the tape in the desired given position as thetape is pinched between the pressure locking wedge and another surface(e.g., the elastomeric gripping layer, or another surface). A handle maybe operable to selectively move the pressure locking wedge, so as toallow selective locking of the tape between the wedge and anothersurface upon actuation of the handle.

An exemplary method may employ a device as described above, so as toprovide the ability for a user to take a measurement, e.g., betweenfirst and second points, without requiring that the user reference anymeasurement indicia that are typically present on a tape. The method mayallow a user to easily measure inside or outside dimensions, withouthaving to remember any measured values, and without having to add alength associated with the length of a tape measure housing whenmeasuring an inside dimension. Such a method may include extending oneend (a leading edge) of a tape to a first point, while aligning astraight edge of the locking device with the second point, so that themeasured length is defined between the end of the tape (the leading edgeof the tape at the first point) and the straight edge of the lockingdevice. When the end of the tape and the straight edge are thus alignedwith the first and second points, the locking device is locked to thetape, locking the given measurement into the device and tape, so that itis “remembered” or recalled as the device and tape are moved to anotherlocation where the information of that measurement can be used.

For example, in this locked condition, the tape and locking device maybe moved from the measurement location (where the first and secondpoints are) to a board, or other material to be cut, marked, or comparedwith the given measurement length. It will be apparent that such amethod allows the board or other material to be cut or marked using thelocked in distance measurement without requiring the user to referenceany of the measurement indicia (e.g., inches, fractions of inches,centimeters, fractions of centimeters, etc.) that may be present on thetape measure.

II. Exemplary Measurement Devices and Methods

FIGS. 1-3 illustrate an exemplary device 100 according to one embodimentof the present invention that may be attached to, or used with a tapemeasure 108 b. For example, device 100 is shown as including a basemember 102, with a housing 104 supported on base member 102. Housing 104is shown as including a slot 106 that allows a tape 108 of tape measure108 b to be received into the slot 106 of housing 104. An elastomericgripping layer 110 may be positioned in housing 104 to contact a face(e.g., a back face) of the tape 108 when the tape is locked in a givenposition during use. In the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 1-3,elastomeric gripping layer 110 is shown disposed on the base member 102,inside housing 104. Additional or other placements are possible, e.g.,FIGS. 6A-6B shows the elastomeric gripping layer positioned elsewhere(e.g., on the movable pressure locking wedge). Layer 110 may be planar(e.g., with tape 108 being concavely and convexly curved). In anotherembodiment, layer 110 may be concavely curved to better mate with thebottom face of tape 108, which is typically convexly curved.

Device 100 is further shown as including a movable pressure lockingwedge 112 within the interior of housing 104. Wedge 112 is movable,e.g., rotatable or movable downward, so as to pinch the tape 108 betweenlayer 110 (or another surface) and wedge 112. In the illustratedexample, a handle 114 is shown operable to move wedge 112, allowingselective locking of the tape 108 between wedge 112 and layer 110 uponactuation of handle 114. In FIG. 1, handle 114 is directly connected towedge 112. In other embodiments (e.g., see FIGS. 7A-7B), connection ofhandle 114 to wedge 112 is not required for the handle to be operable tomove wedge 112.

As shown in FIGS. 2-3, in the illustrated configuration, wedge 112includes a concavely curved outer surface 116 a, as well as a flattenedor reduced surface 116 b. With the handle 114 in an unlocked position(e.g., upward, not yet rotated downward, as seen in FIG. 2), there is agap 117 between housing 104 (e.g., roof 104 a of housing 104) andinternally disposed wedge 112 (particularly flattened surface 116 b).Upon rotation of handle 114 downward to its locking position, the outersurface 116 of wedge 112 rotates, eventually striking roof 104 a ofhousing 104. For example, such striking may occur at or near where theregular convex curvature 116 a of outer surface 116 resumes (i.e., wheresurfaces 116 a and 116 b meet).

By flattened or reduced surface 116 b, it is meant that the exteriorsurface is reduced as compared to what it would be if the regular (e.g.,constant radius) exterior surface of a convex curvature such as at 116 awere simply continued over portion 116 b. In some embodiments, thiscould be achieved by defining a wedge that would have a cylindricalshape (circular convex cross-section), and by simply removing portionsof said shape to create flattened or reduced surface 116 b, e.g., asshown in FIGS. 2 and 3. By flattened surface 116 b, it is not requiredthat the surface actually be flat or planar. Rather, it may simply bereduced as shown, to create a gap 117, which gap can be closed uponrotation of wedge 112 to cause the unreduced surface or portion 116 a tostrike housing 104, closing gap 117.

Those of skill in the art will appreciate that other shaped outersurfaces (various non-circular surfaces) may similarly be rotated toalternate from providing a gap such as gap 117, to providing engagement,and force application between housing 104 (or another structure),pressing wedge 112 into towards layer 110, so as to pinch tape 108therebetween. Thus, it will be appreciated that the illustratedembodiment is merely exemplary. The illustrated engagement effectivelyremoves gap 117 that previously existed between roof 104 a of housing104 and wedge 112, so that if tape 108 is in slot 106, it becomespinched between layer 110 and wedge 112, as shown in FIG. 3. The arrowin FIG. 3 shows how such pinching force is applied upon actuation ofhandle 114 to pinch tape 108.

When a gap 117 is present (see FIG. 2) the tape 108 is not pinched, butis free to slide within slot 106 (into and out of the page in FIG. 2),as some clearance is present between wedge 112, between housing 104 andelastomeric gripping layer 110. This allows the user to slide the tape108 to a desired extension, e.g., positioning a first end of the tape ata first end of a dimension being measured. In this slidableconfiguration, the tape 108 may even be removed from under housing 104,through slot 106, as will be apparent from FIG. 1. Still referring toFIG. 1, in the unlocked, configuration where tape 108 is slidable indevice 100, the straight edge 118 a or 118 b of base member 102 may beadvanced to the opposite end of the dimension being measured (with thetape 108 sliding through slot 106 as this occurs). When the first end(leading end 108 a) of the tape 108 is positioned at the first end ofthe dimension being measured, and one of straight edges 118 a or 118 bis at the second end of the dimension being measured, the handle 114 isactuated, locking device 100 to tape 108. In this locked configuration,the tape 108 and device 100 includes the desired dimension definedbetween the first end 108 a of the locked tape and the straight edge 118a or 118 b.

How such a measurement may be made and locked into the device 100 andtape 108 is shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B. For example, FIG. 4A shows theleading end 108 a of tape 108 positioned at one end of an object ordistance to be measured (e.g., the width of a desk or tabletop 120 inFIG. 4A), with straight edge 118 a being aligned with the other end ofthe object or distance being measured. It will be appreciated that inuse, instead of aligning the end of object or distance 120 with edge 118a, edge 118 b could alternately be used. With the alignment provided asdesired, handle 114 is moved to the locked position, locking the tape108 to device 100 at the desired distance along tape 108. It will beapparent that in this locked configuration, the tape 108 and device 100includes the desired length incorporated, or “locked” therein, so as toallow the user to then move tape 108 and device 100 (e.g., to a board orother object or space) for the measured length to be transferredthereto. Such moving and transference of the measurement does notrequire the user to use or otherwise reference any measurement indiciathat may typically be present on a tape measure, as the dimension isdefined between leading end 108 a and the selected straight edge 118 a,or 118 b.

In an embodiment, only one straight edge (118 a or 118 b) may beprovided, to reduce any risk that a user may forget which edge wasselected. For example, the other edge could be made wavy, curved, or anyother non-orthogonal shape, so as to provide only one “straight edge”for reference.

FIG. 4B shows similar use as in FIG. 4A, but showing how the device 100and tape 108 may be used in measuring an inside dimension, such as theillustrated interior dimension of a picture frame. Other insidedimensions, such as that of a cupboard, doorway, or cabinet may ofcourse be measured, and “locked” or “remembered” by the tape 108 withdevice 100 locked thereto. FIG. 4B shows the leading end 108 a of tape108 positioned at one end of the inside dimension to be measured, withstraight edge 118 b being aligned with the other end of the insidedimension being measured. With the alignment provided as desired, handle114 is moved to the locked position, locking the tape 108 to device 100at the desired distance along tape 108.

It will be apparent that in this locked configuration, the tape 108 anddevice 100 includes the desired length incorporated therein, locked inplace, so as to allow the user to then move tape 108 and device 100(e.g., to a board or other object or space) for the measured length tobe transferred thereto. Such moving and transference of the measurementdoes not require the user to use or otherwise reference any measurementindicia that may typically be present on a tape 108, as the dimension isdefined between leading end 108 a and the selected straight edge 118 b.By way of example, FIG. 4C shows how device 100 with tape 108 locked inthe same relationship as in FIG. 4B, has been moved from the insidedimension measuring environment, to a board or other object to which themeasurement is to be transferred to. As shown, the leading edge 108 a oftape 108 may be aligned with an end of board 124 (or elsewhere on board124, as desired), and marked along straight edge 118 b, effectivelytranslating the measured inside dimension from FIG. 4B, to the board ofFIG. 4C. All such movement and marking may be accomplished with thedevice 100 remaining locked to tape 108, as described herein (e.g., byrotating handle 114 to the locked position).

It will be apparent that the device 100 as shown as described inconjunction with FIGS. 1-4C may be separate from the typical tapemeasure device 108 b into which tape 108 may be spooled. Device 100 maythus be separate, but attachable to, tape measure 108 b. In otherembodiments, the device may be permanently (i.e., fixedly) attached to atape measure 108 b, as seen in FIG. 5, or with the device and tapemeasure otherwise incorporated together (see FIGS. 6A-7C).

The housing and other components of the device may be formed from anysuitable materials. In an embodiment, one or more of the housing,handle, base member, and wedge may comprise any of various durableplastic materials, such as acrylic or similar strength plastics. Othermaterials, such as aluminum, anodized aluminum, aluminum alloys, and thelike may also be used. For the elastomeric gripping layer, any suitableelastomeric material may be used, e.g., rubber materials, latex,silicone, thermoplastic elastomers, thermoset elastomers, and the likemay be suitable for use. Such materials provide grippingcharacteristics, and resist the tape sliding thereover, particularlywhen pinched against such an elastomeric layer.

FIG. 5 shows a device 200 providing similar advantages as device 100,but which is provided attached (e.g., permanently fixed, or removablyattached) to a tape measure device 108 b. Device 200 includes a basemember 202 on which is supported the tape measure device 108 b at oneend, and housing 204 at the other end. Housing 204 includes a slot 206that slidably receives tape 108 of tape measure 108 b, so as to beslidably extended through slot 206. Leading edge 108 a (e.g., as well asa thickened riveted portion 108 c of tape 108) may remain outside ofhousing 204 and slot 206. A movable pressure locking wedge 212 may beprovided in a similar manner as described in conjunction with device100, with a handle 214 for selectively locking wedge 212 downward,pressing tape 108 to lock it in a desired extension out of tape measure108 b.

While a conventional tape measure lock 214′ is shown with tape measure108, those of skill in the art will appreciate that although such tapemeasures are provided with such a mechanism to lock an extension of thetape 108, such existing locking mechanisms are not particularlyreliable, so that even if the lock 214′ is “locked”, the tape 108 can bepushed in or pulled out of tape measure 108 with application of minimalforce. Where a tape measure 108 is provided with the present inventivedevice that includes its own locking mechanism in the movable pressurelocking wedge, it will be appreciated that no such lock 214′ need beprovided with the tape measure 108 b. For example, this may beparticularly so where the tape measure 108 b is provided with theinventive device, either permanently fixed to, or removably attachableto, the tape measure 108 b. Thus, the inventive devices may be used witha tape measure that includes, or does not include, such a conventionallock 214′

As described above, the wedge 212 within housing 204 serves to pinchtape 108 between wedge 212 and another surface, such as elastomericgripping layer 210. As explained in conjunction with FIGS. 2 and 3, andalso shown in FIG. 5A, handle 214 may be connected to wedge 212, orotherwise operable to move wedge 212, allowing selective locking of tape108 between wedge 212 and layer 210 or another surface under tape 108(e.g., and in housing 204) upon downward rotation or other actuation ofhandle 214.

In the embodiment seen in FIGS. 5 and 5A, it will be seen that slot 206is somewhat differently configured relative to slot 106 of device 106.For example, in slot 106 of device 100, the slot is open on three of thefour sides of the illustrated housing 104, which allows the tape 108 tobe completely removed from the slot 106, housing 104, and device 100. Indevice 200, slot 206 is shown as closed on two opposite sides, and beingopen at the other two opposite sides of housing 204, so that tape 108 isfed through an open side of housing 204 between base 202 and housingrear wall 204 b, and then extending through housing 204 to exit at slot206 between housing front wall 204 c and base 202. In the illustratedembodiment, housing 204 may include a joint between itself and base 202,e.g., to be attached thereto during mechanical assembly by themanufacturer. For example, such may allow tape 108 to be enclosed withinhousing 204, as shown.

This configuration provides an embodiment in which tape 108 is notreadily removable from housing 204 of device 200, but can simply bereeled into or out of tape measure 108 b, through housing 204. By way ofexample, if no leading edge 108 a or riveted section 108 c were present(e.g., if the leading end of the tape 108 were the same thickness as therest of tape, or at least thin enough to fit through slot 206 of housing204), it may be possible to disconnect tape 108 from device 200,although with the illustrated leading edge and/or rivets, the attachmentis permanent as a practical matter. By permanent, it is meant that thetape 108 is not removable from the device without disassembling orbreaking the device or tape.

In addition, base member 202 is differently configured as compared tobase member 102 of device 100. For example, base member 102 is shown asextending with a longitudinal axis that is orthogonal (e.g., 90° to) thelongitudinal axis of tape 108. In base member 202, the longitudinal axisof base member 202 is parallel to (e.g., and below) the longitudinalaxis of tape 108.

Movable pressure locking wedge 212 of device 200 may be similarlyconfigured as wedge 112 of device 100, e.g., similarly including aconvex outer surface, and an adjacent outer surface which has beenflattened or reduced relative to the radius of curvature of the adjacentconvex outer surface. The flattened surface need not be fully planar orflat, but merely sufficient to provide the wedge with a non-circularouter surface, which upon rotation allows a location of the outersurface to impinge upon some other structure (e.g., housing 204),resulting in a downwardly applied locking force. Such force pinches tape108 between wedge 212 and the elastomeric layer 210, or some otherstructure. In other words, as described above in conjunction with device100, a gap may be defined between wedge 212 and housing 204 when handle214 is in the unlocked position, and as handle 214 is moved to thelocked position, this gap is closed or otherwise eliminated, resultingin force engagement between wedge 212 (e.g., an upper surface thereof)and housing 204, resulting in a downwardly applied force that pinchestape 108, holding it in place.

As shown in the Figures, it is advantageous that the bottom surface ofthe wedge 212 that contacts tape 108 include a convex curvature that maymatch, or substantially match (e.g., radiused within some percentage ofone another—such as 25%, 10%, 5%, 3%, or 1%) a concave curvature whichis typically provided within the top face of tape 108 (i.e., tape 108 istypically concavely curved on its top face, and convexly curved on itsbottom face, as shown). Such curvature of the wedge 212 where it engageswith tape 108 assists in more tightly gripping and pinching tape 108,particularly in combination with elastomeric gripping layer 110, e.g.,positioned on the opposite side of tape 108. In some embodiments, theelastomeric gripping layer (or other engaging surface) could alsoinclude a corresponding concave curvature configured to receive theconcavely curved bottom surface of tape 108.

The locking structures including a curved wedge and elastomeric grippinglayer provide for very tight locking of the tape, when the handle ismoved to the locked position. For example, the present inventors havefound that a 5 lb weight can be attached to the leading edge 108 a ofthe tape 108, oriented vertically downward (i.e., suspended therefrom),and the tape will remain locked. Thus, the locking mechanism may providea locking force of more than 2 lbs, more than 3 lbs, more than 4 lbs,more than 5 lbs, more than 6 lbs, or more than 7 lbs (e.g., 5 lbs to 10lbs, or more). Such a lock is far more reliable than conventional tapemeasure locks 214′.

Device 200 further includes a straight edge 218 a. Straight edge 218 ais parallel to leading edge 108 a of tape 108, and orthogonal (e.g.,90°, or perpendicular to) the longitudinal axis of tape 108. Straightedge 218 a is advantageous as it provides a well-defined end point tothe measurement locked into the device 200, when such a device is usedto measure an outside or inside dimension, as described in conjunctionwith FIGS. 4A-4C, above. Such an edge is better defined than the outerhousing of typical tape measures (e.g., 108 b) as shown, as suchhousings do not typically include a straight edge, but are oftentextured surfaces, that are bowed, and rounded. The straight edge 218 aprovides better accuracy as a measurement is taken and locked into thedevice (e.g., defined between leading edge 108 a of tape 108 andstraight edge 218 a).

For example, the straight edge (e.g., 218 a) may be vertical, and flat,at a rear end of the base member, behind the housing of the device(e.g., and behind tape measure 108 b). This allows the flat rear endstraight edge of the base member to be butted against an end of adimension (inside or outside) and a leading edge of the tape to beextended in an opposite direction. The handle can be actuated to lockthe tape between the pressure locking wedge and the elastomeric grippinglayer or other surface, so that the dimension corresponds to thedistance between the leading edge 108 a of tape 108 and the rear endstraight edge (e.g., 218 a) of base member 202.

In an embodiment, the straight edge 218 a may have a length that extendsbeyond the width of the rear of the housing of tape measure 108 b (e.g.,base member 202 may be L-shaped, with the bottom leg of the L beingstraight edge 218 a, rather than a simple rectangular shaped base member202. Of course, a rectangular shaped base member is also possible.

FIGS. 6A-6B illustrate another embodiment of a device 300, providingadvantages according to the present invention. Device 300 fullyintegrates the locking mechanism provided by a movable pressure lockingwedge 312 and an elastomeric gripping layer (e.g., 310 a, 310 b) into atape measure device (e.g., device 300), rather than providing a devicethat is attached or attachable to a separate tape measure 108 b. Forexample, device 300 includes a base member 302 with a housing 304supported thereon. A slot 306 is provided at a front end of device 300,defined between base member 302 and the front wall 304 c of housing 304.Tape 108 is shown provided spooled (at 108 d) within housing 304, sothat device 300 integrates tape 108, rather than working with a separatetape measure 108 b, which provides the tape 108. Spooling of tape 108may be provided by any suitable mechanism, e.g., those currentlyemployed in tape measures (e.g., tape measure 108 b), as will beappreciated by those of skill in the art.

No conventional lock 214′ is shown, as device 300 includes lockingmechanism such as those described herein. For example, a movablepressure locking wedge 312 may be provided, positioned within housing304, and with a handle 314 connected to the pressure locking wedge 312or otherwise operable therewith. In the illustrated embodiment, rotationof handle 314 moves (e.g., rotates) wedge 312 to pinch tape 108 betweenwedge 312 and another surface. In the device of FIG. 300, the othersurface is stationary wedge 326. Stationary wedge 326 thus may bepositioned within housing 304, on one side of unspooled tape 108, withmovable pressure locking wedge 312 on the other side of stationary wedge326. For example, the movable pressure locking wedge 312 may beengagable with the rear face of tape 108, while stationary wedge 326 maybe engagable with the front face of tape 108.

One or both of wedges 312 or 326 may include an elastomeric grippingmaterial disposed thereon, or otherwise comprise an elastomeric grippingmaterial, to aid in the pinching of tape 108. For example, in theillustrated embodiment, an elastomeric gripping layer 310 b may beprovided under movable pressure locking wedge 312, and/or wrapped arounda portion of the exterior surface of wedge 312. In the illustratedembodiment, a layer 310 a is shown disposed along a portion of exteriorsurface 316 (e.g., convexly curved outer surface 316 a). A flattenedexterior surface 316 b may also be provided, similarly to wedges 112 and212. In an embodiment, the elastomeric gripping layer 310 a may notextend over flattened surface 316 b, but may stop short thereof. Flat316 b may provide a sufficient gap between wedge 312 (surface 316 b) andtape 108 so that tape 108 is able to freely slide between wedges 326 and312 when handle 314 is in the unlocked position. In other words, a usermay freely pull on leading edge 108 a, extending tape 108 to any desireddistance out of housing 304, when handle 314 and movable locking wedge312 are in the unlocked position, as shown in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 6B illustrates the arrangement when handle 314 is rotated downwardor otherwise actuated (movement or rotation could be in anotherdirection), locking tape 108 at a desired extension between stationarywedge 326 and movable wedge 312. For example, leading edge 108 a may bepulled to extend tape 108 out from housing 304 to a desired length, andwhen that length is reached handle 314 is rotated downward, locking tape108 in place, as shown in FIG. 6B.

In FIGS. 6A-6B handle 314 and wedge 312 are shown at a location that isbelow and behind spool 108 d of tape 108, about which spool tape 108winds. Such a spool may be configured to automatically spool tape 108,absent a pulling force on the tape (e.g., at leading edge 108 a), or alocking force (e.g., at wedge 312). With handle 314 behind spool 108 d,and thus extending out of housing 304 in the same direction (rearwardly)as where straight edge 318 a of base member 302 is located, it may beadvantageous to ensure that handle 314 is sufficiently short so as tonot extend past straight edge 318 a, as shown in FIG. 6A-6B, no matterthe position of handle 314. This aids in ensuring that handle 314 doesnot interfere with the ability to abut straight edge 318 a against asurface that may define one end of an inside dimension (e.g., placingstraight edge 318 a against one end of the inside of a cabinet, with theleading edge 108 a of tape 108 at the other end of the inside dimensionof the cabinet).

FIGS. 7A-7B illustrate another embodiment of the inventive device of thepresent invention. Device 400 is similar to device 300, in that itincludes spool 108 d for tape 108 housed within housing 404, withhousing 404 supported on base member 402. Rather than providing thepressure locking wedge and associated components for locking tape 108 atthe rear of the device, such components have been provided towards thefront of device 400. Similar to the other devices described herein, aslot 406 is shown provided in housing 404 (e.g., between front housingwall 404 c and base member 402.

Provided within device 400 is a movable pressure locking wedge 412, andelastomeric gripping layer 410. Layer 410 is positioned to contact aface (e.g., rear face) of tape 108 when tape 108 is locked in a desiredextended position using a handle 414. Handle 414 is operable to movepressure locking wedge 412, allowing selective locking of tape 108between wedge 412 and another surface (e.g., layer 410) upon actuationof handle 414. Although the previously described embodiments show theactuating handle attached to the movable pressure locking wedge, device400 includes a handle 414 that is not actually directly connected towedge 412, but which is still operable to move wedge 412. Of course,those handles described herein that are connected to the associatedmovable wedge are also operable to move the pressure locking wedge.Device 400 includes a hinge 426, e.g., extending across housing 404(e.g., attached to sidewalls thereof), which hinge 426 is attached tohandle 414. Handle 414 is shown attached to one side of cylindricalhinge 426 (e.g., configured as a cylindrical dowel or pin). Uponrotation of handle 414 (and hinge 426), the arm 414 a of handle 414becomes interposed between hinge 426 and movable wedge 412, forcingwedge 412 downward, closing the gap 417 that previously existed (FIG.7A) between wedge 412 and arm 414 a, causing tape 108 to be pinchedbetween wedge 412 and elastomeric gripping layer 410.

FIGS. 8A-8B are similar to FIGS. 4A-4B, but show measurement usingdevice 400 of FIGS. 7A-7C.

Any of the devices according to the present invention (those embodimentsdescribed herein, or others) may be used in associated methods, whichallow measurement between first and second points, without requiring auser to reference any measurement indicia typically included on a tapeof a tape measure. For example, one end (leading edge 108 a) of a tape108 may be extended to the first point (e.g., one end of a desk, tabletop, inside of a cabinet, doorway, other opening, etc.) while aligning astraight edge (118 a, 118 b, 218 a, 318 a, 418 a) of the device (e.g.,100, 200, 300, 400) with the second point (opposite end of the desk,table top, inside of cabinet, doorway, other opening etc.). With thedevice locked in place, the desired measurement is defined between thefirst end of the tape (e.g., leading edge 108) and the straight edge 118a, 118 b, 218 a, 318 a, or 418 a.

With the locking device locked to tape 108, the tape and locking deviceare moved to a board or other material or object to be cut, marked, orcompared using the measurement that is “locked” into or “remembered” bythe device and tape 108 locked together. With the end of the tape(leading edge 108 a) at one end, and the straight edge at the other enddesignating the point at which the board is to be cut, marked, orcompared, this may occur. The board or other material may then be cut,marked, compared or otherwise used with the measurement. This allows theuser to translate the measurement taken from between the first andsecond points from where the measurement was taken (e.g., desk, tabletop, inside of cabinet, doorway, other opening etc.) to the board orother material, without requiring any reference to measurement indiciathat may be on the tape. Of course, it will be appreciated that cuttingor marking the board or other material is not necessarily required. Forexample, one may use the method to measure a desk or other object to besure that it will fit through a doorway or other opening. Those of skillin the art will appreciate that such methods may similarly be used in avariety of other circumstances where measurement (or comparison of ameasurement) is desired.

The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms withoutdeparting from its spirit or essential characteristics. The describedembodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrated andnot restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated bythe appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. Allchanges which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of theclaims are to be embraced within their scope.

What is claimed is:
 1. A device that includes or is attachable to a tapemeasure, for use therewith, the device comprising: a base member; ahousing supported on the base member including a slot for slidablyreceiving a tape of the tape measure insertable through the slot of thehousing; an elastomeric gripping layer positioned in the housing,positioned to contact a face of the tape when the tape is locked in agiven position during use; a movable pressure locking wedge positionedwithin the housing so that the tape is pinchable between the pressurelocking wedge and another surface; a handle operable to move thepressure locking wedge which allows selective locking of the tapebetween the pressure locking wedge and the other surface upon actuationof the handle.
 2. The device as recited in claim 1, wherein the handleis attached to the pressure locking wedge.
 3. The device as recited inclaim 1, wherein the movable pressure locking wedge is positioned at alocation that is forward relative to a spool about which the tape winds.4. The device as recited in claim 1, wherein the movable pressurelocking wedge is positioned at a location that is below relative to aspool about which the tape winds.
 5. The device as recited in claim 1,wherein the other surface is the elastomeric gripping layer, so that thetape is pinched between the movable pressure locking wedge and theelastomeric gripping layer.
 6. The device as recited in claim 1, whereinthe other surface is a stationary wedge positioned opposite the movablepressure locking wedge, so that the tape is pinched between the movablepressure locking wedge and the stationary wedge.
 7. The device asrecited in claim 1, wherein the elastomeric gripping layer is positionedat a bottom of the slot of the housing over which the tape slides duringuse.
 8. The device as recited in claim 1, wherein the elastomericgripping layer is positioned on a convex outer surface of the movablepressure locking wedge.
 9. The device as recited in claim 1, wherein atleast the housing and base member comprise a material selected from thegroup consisting of aluminum, anodized aluminum, aluminum alloys, and adurable plastic.
 10. A device that is attached to or attachable to atape measure, for use therewith, the device comprising: a base member; ahousing supported on the base member including a slot for slidablyreceiving a tape of a tape measure insertable through the slot of thehousing; an elastomeric gripping layer positioned at a bottom of theslot of the housing over which the tape slides during use; a movablepressure locking wedge positioned within the housing so that the tape isbetween the pressure locking wedge and the elastomeric gripping layer; ahandle operable to move the pressure locking wedge which allowsselective locking of the tape between the pressure locking wedge and theelastomeric gripping layer upon actuation of the handle.
 11. The deviceas recited in claim 10, wherein the base member includes a vertical,flat rear end straight edge, so that when the tape measure is supportedon the base member, behind the housing, the straight edge of the basemember may be butted against a first end of an inside dimension and aleading edge of the tape may be extended to an opposite second end ofthe inside dimension, and the handle actuated to lock the tape betweenthe pressure locking wedge and the elastomeric gripping layer, so thatthe inside dimension corresponds to a distance between the leading edgeof the tape and the vertical, flat rear end straight edge of the basemember.
 12. The device as recited in claim 10, wherein the pressurelocking member has a convexly rounded surface that mates within aconcavely rounded surface of the tape.
 13. The device as recited inclaim 10, wherein the elastomeric gripping layer is selected from thegroup consisting of rubber materials, latex, silicone, thermoplasticelastomers, and thermoset elastomers.
 14. The device as recited in claim10, wherein the elastomeric gripping layer is planar while the tape iscurved.
 15. The device as recited in claim 10, wherein the deviceincludes the tape measure permanently fixed to the base member, behindthe housing.
 16. The device as recited in claim 15, wherein the basemember includes a vertical, flat rear end straight edge.
 17. A method oftaking a measurement between first and second points, the methodcomprising: extending one end of a tape to the first point whilealigning a straight edge of a locking device that locks to the tape withthe second point to define the measurement as between the end of thetape and the straight edge of the locking device; with the lockingdevice locked to the tape, moving the tape and locking device lockedthereto to a board or other material to be cut, marked, or comparedusing the measurement, with the end of the tape at one end of the boardor other material, and the straight edge of the locking devicedesignating a point at which the board or other material is to be cut,marked, or compared.
 18. The method as recited in claim 17, furthercomprising cutting or marking the board or other material at thestraight edge, so as to translate the measurement taken from between thefirst and second points to the board or other material, withoutrequiring any reference to measurement indicia that may be on the tape.19. The method as recited in claim 17, wherein the measurement betweenfirst and second points is an inside dimension.
 20. The method asrecited in claim 17, wherein the tape is a tape of a tape measure, andthe locking device is separate from the tape measure, or is permanentlyattached to the tape measure.